After meeting an indicator for 6 months, what should a clinical RD do next?

After monitoring an indicator for 6 months, it is essential for a clinical registered dietitian to evaluate the need to continue monitoring the indicator. This step ensures that the dietitian assesses the patient's ongoing nutritional needs and the effectiveness of any interventions that have been implemented.

By evaluating whether the indicator still requires attention, the RD can determine if the patient is progressing well enough to perhaps reduce the frequency of monitoring, maintain the same level of oversight, or adjust the care plan to better support the patient's nutritional health. This critical evaluation can lead to more tailored and effective interventions, optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring that resources are used efficiently.

In contrast, conducting a new nutrition screening might be premature if the existing indicator is still valid and being monitored. Revising the care plan may be necessary after evaluation, but it should not be the immediate next step without first assessing the need for continued monitoring. Discontinuing monitoring altogether could lead to overlooking ongoing issues or changes in the patient's condition, which can result in negative health outcomes.